HC Deb 29 May 1883 vol 279 c1104
SIR MICHAEL HICKS-BEACH

asked the First Lord of the Treasury, If he is now able to state whether it is the intention of Her Majesty's Government to propose a Vote in Supply for the purpose described in his Notice of Motion, of "making adequate provision for the interests of" any South African Chief "who may have just claims on them?" The right hon. Gentleman said that he asked a similar Question before Whitsuntide, and that he was then told that the Government would be better able to reply after the Recess.

MR. GLADSTONE

I did certainly, Sir, refer to the arrival of Sir Hercules Robinson in this country as likely largely to increase our means of judgment upon various questions in South Africa. But with regard to the minuter point upon which this matter may turn, I am not sure that we have the necessary information. Therefore, it is not yet possible for us to say whether, or to what extent, pecuniary compensation will, in compliance with the declarations which have been made, be payable to the South African Chiefs in connection with the recent transactions in Bechuanaland.